Those conditions include; the ground must be frozen to allow for crossing or wet areas, there must be about 12 inches of snow on the ground, landowner permits that allow trails on private land must be in place, trails must be cleared of dead falls, signs must be in place and gates must be opened.

The DNR recommends a minimum of 5 inches of new clear ice for snowmobilies.

The DNR says that snowmobile clubs and trail crews are preparing trails but it could be a few weeks before those trails are ready. Work in many areas cannot begin until wet or swampy areas freeze.

When the trails open, the DNR urges early season riders to use caution due to fallen trees or debris that may have fallen across the trails.

Minnesota has more than 22,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails; more than 21,000 miles of them are maintained by local snowmobile club volunteers.